crochet-hooks are in the end the dearest, as they break cotton, ravel
silk, wear out the patience, and prick the finger. They should be of
the best steel, highly polished, and firmly fixed in ivory handles.
Those we use have been made at our recommendation, and have the _size_
engraved on every handle. This saves the tiresome and uncertain
reference to a gauge. These hooks are termed "_tapered, indented_"
crochet-hooks.

* * * * *




ANTI-MACASSAR.

MATERIALS.--Four reels of Brooks' Great Exhibition Prize
Goat's-head Crochet Cotton, No. 8, 1 ditto, No. 4, 4 ounces of
turquoise blue beads.

The anti-macassar of which we give a representation in the engraving
is intended to fit the top of a library chair. One half only is seen.
A similar piece of crochet is to be made and sewed to it, the
two forming a sort of bag, which is slipped over the back of the
chair. It is a great improvement on the old-fashioned anti-macassar,
as it is not liable to be displaced. A border is added to the front of
it, the pattern of which is made in beads (in the style of the
bassinet quilt, page 24). This, from its weight, serves to keep the
anti-macassar from shifting, and is finished with a handsome fringe.
Spotted muslin, or any similar material, may be used for the back of
the anti-macassar, instead of crochet, for those who would prefer